The Arc Tennessee’s Family Engagement Program is working
closely with the Tennessee Department of Education to provide frequently
updated resources to families involved in special education. We are taking
guidance provided by the State Department of Education along with the US Department
of Education to help families navigate school closures and figure out what it
means for their child’s services and rights to a Free and Public Education (FAPE)
through the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA). We can also
help districts and educators understand this guidance and brainstorm ways to
best serve students with disabilities at home.
Resources for Families:
- COVID-19 School Closure Updates for Families in Special Education: https://bit.ly/CovidFamilyResources
- Self-Advocates can look into joining People First to help find connections during this time of isolation.
- Facebook Live video chats with the Tennessee Department of Education every Wednesday at 11am Central to answer questions and provide support to families on facebook.com/thearctennessee
Resources for Districts/Educators:
- TN Department of Education's Response to COVID-19 Presentation
- Educating All Learners Alliance an effort for educators, by educators. Resources include webinars, community forum, and a resource library.
- This “COVID-19 School Closure Updates for Families in Special Education” resource was created for families but is helpful to educators as well and is meant to be shared. https://bit.ly/CovidFamilyResources
- Facebook Live video chats with the Tennessee Department of Education every Wednesday at 11am Central to answer questions and provide support to families on facebook.com/thearctennessee
